Useful Hakone Information
Useful Hakone Information
Is it useful to have a guide in Hakone?
Is it useful to have a guide in Hakone?
Is it useful to have a guide in Hakone?
Hiring a hiking guide in Hakone is highly recommended for several reasons, ensuring a safer, more enriching, and hassle-free experience. Here’s why you should consider one:
1. Expert Navigation on Complex Trails
– Hakone’s terrain includes volcanic zones, dense forests, and steep slopes. A guide knows the safest and most scenic routes, avoiding dangerous or poorly marked paths.
– Trails like the Hakone Hachiri or routes around Owakudani can be confusing; a guide prevents you from getting lost.
2. Safety in Volcanic and Unpredictable Areas
– Hakone is an active geothermal region with areas emitting sulfurous gases. Guides monitor conditions and steer you away from hazardous zones.
– Weather can change rapidly; guides adjust plans to avoid risks like fog or landslides.
3. Insider Knowledge of Hidden Gems
– Guides take you to lesser-known spots, such as secluded hot springs (onsen), viewpoints, or historical sites like the Old Tokaido Road, which you might miss alone.
– They share stories about Hakone’s geology, culture, and Edo-period history, deepening your appreciation.
4. Efficient Logistics and Time Management
– Guides optimize your hike to align with public transport and popular attractions like Lake Ashi or Hakone Shrine, maximizing your day.
5. Cultural and Natural Interpretation
– Learn about local flora/fauna (e.g., Hakone’s endemic species) and volcanic activity.
– Guides explain etiquette for sacred sites and onsens (e.g., how to use traditional baths).
6. Emergency Preparedness
– In case of injury or wildlife encounters (e.g., wild boars), guides are trained in first aid and know emergency protocols.
– They communicate with local authorities if needed, a critical advantage if you don’t speak Japanese.
7. Language Barrier Assistance
– Many trail signs and maps are only in Japanese. A bilingual guide ensures smooth communication with locals or rescue services.
It is 8. Customized Experiences
– Whether you want a strenuous climb (e.g. Traverse Hakone Caldera) or a relaxed nature walk, guides tailor the hike to your fitness level and interests.
When You Might Skip a Guide
If you’re experienced in hiking Japan’s trails, fluent in Japanese, or sticking to well-marked routes like the **Hakone Sekisho Trail**, you could go solo. However, for most travelers, a guide enhances safety, knowledge, and enjoyment.
Pro Tip: It is useful to have a guide but please book a guide who has a Japan National Guide License issued the Japanese government. These guides possess a deep understanding of Japanese culture, history, and traditions, and are officially recognized for their expertise and language skills.
Useful links when considering ‘Is it useful to have a guide in Hakone?’
Hiking Tours in Hakone (run by Japan National Guide/Interpretor):
3 Useful Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen
3 Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen
Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen – Before Entering the Bathing Area:
Remove Shoes: At the entrance to the onsen facility, you’ll typically find shoe lockers or shelves. Remove your outdoor shoes here.
Gender Segregation: Onsens are almost always gender-separated. Look for signs: a red curtain or the kanji 女 (onna) for women, and a blue curtain or 男 (otoko) for men. Double-check before entering to avoid embarrassment!
Changing Room: Inside the changing room, you’ll find lockers or baskets for your clothes and belongings.
Get Completely Naked: This is the most important and often surprising rule for first-timers. Onsens are enjoyed in complete nudity. No swimsuits, underwear, or other clothing are allowed in the bathing area. It might feel awkward at first, but everyone is in the same boat, and it’s part of the cultural experience.
Towels: You’ll typically be given two towels:
- Large Bath Towel: This is for drying yourself completely after your bath, in the changing room. Leave it in your locker.
- Small Hand Towel (Kakeyu Towel): You can bring this into the bathing area. It’s used for washing your body and can be used for modesty while walking around. It should never touch the onsen water. Many people fold it and place it on their head while soaking.
Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen – In the Bathing Area
Shower Thoroughly (Arai-ba): Before entering the hot spring water, you must wash your entire body thoroughly. There will be an area with individual shower stalls, small stools, and sometimes complimentary soap and shampoo. Sit on the stool and cleanse yourself fully, making sure to rinse off all soap suds. This is crucial for maintaining the cleanliness of the communal bath water.
Enter the Onsen Slowly: The water can be very hot (typically 40-45°C or 104-113°F). Enter slowly to allow your body to adjust. You might want to pour some hot water over your legs and feet first (this is called “kakeyu”).
No Towels in the Water: As mentioned, your small hand towel should never enter the onsen water. Place it on the edge of the bath or fold it and put it on your head. If it accidentally falls in, wring it out outside the bath.
No Hair in the Water: If you have long hair, tie it up so it doesn’t touch the water.
Soak, Don’t Wash: The onsen is for soaking and relaxing, not for washing your body. All washing should be done at the shower stalls.
Maintain Quiet: Onsens are places of relaxation and tranquility. Keep conversations to a low murmur. Avoid loud talking, shouting, or splashing.
No Swimming or Diving: Onsens are not swimming pools. Avoid any vigorous activity like swimming, diving, or splashing.
Hydrate: The hot water can be dehydrating. It’s a good idea to drink plenty of water before and after your bath. Avoid alcohol before or during your onsen visit.
No Phones or Cameras: For privacy and respect, do not bring phones, cameras, or any electronic devices into the bathing area. Photography is strictly prohibited.
Tattoos: Historically, tattoos have been associated with the yakuza (Japanese mafia), and many traditional onsens still prohibit entry to tattooed individuals. However, this is slowly changing, especially in more tourist-heavy areas. If you have tattoos, it’s best to research the specific onsen’s policy beforehand. Some may allow entry if tattoos are small and can be covered with a bandage.
Take Breaks: If the water feels too hot, step out and sit on the edge of the bath to cool down. Don’t stay in for too long, especially if you’re not used to it, to avoid dizziness.
Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen – After Your Bath
Dry Off Before Re-entering Changing Room: Before stepping back into the changing room, use your small hand towel to wipe off as much excess water from your body as possible. This helps keep the changing room floor dry for others.
Use Large Towel: Once in the changing room, use your large bath towel to dry yourself completely.
Relax: Many onsen facilities have relaxation areas where you can unwind further, often with vending machines for drinks.
By following these etiquette guidelines, you’ll show respect for Japanese culture and ensure a harmonious and enjoyable onsen experience for everyone. Enjoy your soak.
Useful links about onsens in Japan: (Key Steps for Enjoying Japanese Onsen)